Stages of Prenatal Development Child Psychology II

The Germinal Stage

The Embryonic Stage The second Stage of Development 3 rd – 8 th week Amniotic Sac –Sac filled with amniotic fluid forms around the embryo in the uterus Placenta –Absorbs oxygen and nourishment from the mother to give to the baby Umbilical Cord –A long tube that connects the placenta and the baby (feels like a garden hose) carries nourishment to the baby and waste away to the placenta and then the mother’s blood stream

The Fetal Stage The third and final stage The longest stage 8 th /9 th week until birth

First Month By the end of the first month, the embryo is about 1/10 of an inch long. The heart, which is no larger than a poppy seed, has begun beating.

First Month

Two Months The embryo is about 1 inch long and has distinct, slightly webbed fingers. Veins are clearly visible. The heart has divided into right and left chambers.

Two Months

Three Months By now the fetus is 2 1/2 to 3 inches long and is fully formed. He has begun swallowing and kicking. All organs and muscles have formed and are beginning to function.

Four Months Your baby is covered with a layer of thick, downy hair called lanugo. His heartbeat can be heard clearly. This is when you may feel your baby's first kick.

4 months

Five Months A protective coating called vernix caseosa begins to form on baby's skin. By the end of this month, your baby will be nearly 8 inches long and weigh almost a pound.

Six Months Eyebrows and eyelids are visible. Your baby's lungs are filled with amniotic fluid, and he has started breathing motions. If you talk or sing, he can hear you.

6 Months

Seven Months By the end of the seventh month, your baby weighs about 3 1/2 pounds and is about 12 inches long. His body is well-formed. Fingernails cover his fingertips

Eight Months Your baby is gaining about half a pound per week, and layers of fat are piling on. He has probably turned head-down in preparation for birth. He weighs between 4 and 6 pounds.

Nine Months Your baby is a hefty 6 to 9 pounds and measures between 19 and 22 inches. As he becomes more crowded, you may feel him move around less.